People with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) are at a higher risk of heart attack and stroke because the blood vessels in their legs are not functioning well. The main cause of PVD is atherosclerosis. This condition occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, preventing blood flow to the limbs. This condition also causes blood clots to form on the walls of the arteries, blocking them. It's most common in people who have diabetes and coronary artery disease. Those who smoke or have high blood pressure have the highest risk of developing this disorder. Go to this site for more details on the main causes of PVD.
The first step in developing peripheral vascular disease is to develop a blood pressure control program. High blood pressure and cholesterol levels are the two most common risk factors. Smokers and obese patients are also at risk for developing this condition. These risk factors make it difficult to manage and treat. In addition, people with diabetes have higher risks of developing this disease. Fortunately, many of the symptoms of PVD are easily treated and reversible.
Patients with PVD may not experience symptoms at first, and the onset of symptoms usually starts with increasing blood pressure in the leg. The symptoms can occur suddenly or over time and are more noticeable when a person is active. Typical symptoms include pain, aching, burning, and cramping in the limbs. Even if a patient is not active, these symptoms can be a sign of the disease. It's essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
The symptoms of PVD are often present even when a patient isn't actively exercising. A doctor can detect the disease if a thorough physical examination is conducted. During a physical examination, the team may check the skin temperature, appearance, and pulse in the legs. In some cases, angiography is necessary, as it involves injecting dye into the arteries. This test allows doctors to see the clogged arteries and other symptoms of PVD.
The symptoms of PVD may not be obvious at first. These symptoms typically occur irregularly and occur more often during activity. Some patients may experience leg cramps when walking or doing other activities. Other symptoms may include pain, achiness, and discomfort, and are worse when the patient is active. When the condition is advanced, varicose vein treatment may be required. Ultimately, it is important to find a doctor with expertise in the area of pain to prevent further complications.
If the symptoms persist, the patient should visit a physician immediately. The signs of PVD may occur even if the patient is not physically active. A thorough evaluation will include measurements of blood flow in the legs, the arteries in the arms, and the blood pressure in the ankle. Symptoms may also include changes in the skin color, hair, and nails. They may even have wounds that will not heal. Medications can be prescribed for the condition.
Take a look at this link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heart_failure, for more information about this topic.